Serena Williams is encouraging fans to embrace self-love after sharing a bikini photo with her baby daughter, Adira, just six months after giving birth.
The 43-year-old tennis legend, who retired from the sport in 2022, has long been open about body image and the challenges she faced throughout her career. In her Instagram post, she reminded followers that loving oneself is essential:
“Right now I love that my body is not picture perfect. I love that I smell like milk, because that milk is what sustains Adira. I love discovering a new version of myself—it’s a change, but one that’s absolutely worth it.”
Williams also urged fans to begin their week by remembering they are loved, starting with self-acceptance.
The 23-time Grand Slam champion has previously admitted she grew up without a positive body image and struggled for years to embrace her physique. Married to Reddit founder Alexis Ohanian, the couple welcomed their first daughter, Olympia, in 2017, and Adira in 2023.
Her journey to motherhood hasn’t been easy. After Olympia’s birth, Williams required an emergency C-section and later surgery for blood clots in her lungs. She has also spoken candidly about experiencing depression after childbirth, describing it as a “fourth trimester” that doesn’t get enough attention.
Despite these challenges, Williams returned to the tennis court less than a year after giving birth to Olympia, competing in the French Open. Today, she continues to inspire millions by being transparent about both the struggles and joys of motherhood.
